Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point will continue its “Tuesday Tutorials” on September 15 when it will present “Diabetes &Kidney Disease” at the Rao Musunuru, MD Conference Center at 14100 Yosemite Drive...

Talk to your doctor about your medications. You may be asked to stop taking some medications up to one week before the procedure.

Take antibiotics if instructed.

Follow a special diet if instructed.

Shower the night before using antibacterial soap if instructed.

Arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital. Also, have someone to help you at home.

Eat a light meal the night before. Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.

Anesthesia

General anesthesia
will be used. It will block any pain and keep you asleep through the surgery.

Description of the Procedure

Several small keyhole incisions will be made in the abdomen. Carbon dioxide gas will be passed into the area. This will make it easier for internal structures to be viewed. A small camera, called an endoscope will be passed through one of the incisions. The camera will light, magnify, and project the structures onto a video screen. The camera will be attached to one of the robotic arms. The other arms will hold instruments for grasping, cutting, dissecting, and suturing; for example:

While sitting at a console near the operating table, the doctor will use lenses to look at a magnified 3D image of the inside of the body. Another doctor will stay by the table to adjust the camera and tools. The robotic arms and tools will be guided with joystick-like controls and foot pedals. After the tools are removed, sutures or staples will be used to close the surgical area.

How Long Will It Take?

About 2-4 hours, depending on the procedure

Will It Hurt?

Anesthesia will prevent pain during surgery. Pain and discomfort after the procedure can be managed with medications. You may also feel discomfort from the gas used during the procedure. This can last up to 3 days.

Average Hospital Stay

About 1-2 days, depending on the procedure

Post-procedure Care

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

For some procedures, a urine catheter will be left in place for a while. You will be instructed on how to care for this.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.